How to store spinach for a long time

Spinach can be stored for extended shelf life through methods such as refrigeration, freezing, and drying, with the key being the control of moisture and temperature. There are mainly methods such as refrigerated storage, frozen storage, drying treatment, vacuum packaging, and dark storage.

1. Refrigerate and store

Wash fresh spinach, drain off excess water, wrap it in kitchen paper, and place it in a fresh-keeping bag. Remove the air from the bag and seal it. Placed in the vegetable and fruit compartment of the refrigerator, with a temperature maintained at around 4 degrees Celsius, it can be stored for 3-5 days. Be careful to avoid mixing with other fruits that produce ethylene, and regularly check to remove yellow leaves.

2. Frozen storage

After blanching spinach for 30 seconds, immediately supercool it, squeeze out the water, and pack it into a sealed bag. After draining the air, freeze it. The freezing temperature should be below minus 18 degrees Celsius and can be stored for 2-3 months. When used, it can be cooked directly without thawing, suitable for making soups or stews, and can better maintain color and nutrition.

3. Drying treatment

Wash spinach and cut it into sections. Spread it flat in a dryer or ventilated place to dry. After complete dehydration, put it into a sealed jar. Dry environment can inhibit microbial growth, and can be stored at room temperature for up to six months. Soak it in warm water before eating. It is suitable for filling or adding Congee, but some vitamins will be lost.

4. Vacuum packaging

uses a vacuum machine to remove air from the packaging, isolate oxygen, and delay oxidation. Processed spinach can be refrigerated for 7-10 days and frozen for up to 4-6 months. It is necessary to ensure that the surface of spinach is dry before packaging to avoid residual moisture causing decay, and it is suitable for use when purchasing in large quantities.

5. Avoid light storage

The chlorophyll in spinach is easily decomposed when exposed to light. Regardless of the storage method used, direct sunlight should be avoided. It is recommended to use opaque containers or dark plastic bags and store them in a dark place. At the same time, pay attention to staying away from heat sources, as temperature fluctuations can accelerate leaf wilting and nutrient loss.

When storing spinach, it is recommended to choose the appropriate method according to the consumption plan. For short-term consumption, it is recommended to refrigerate, and for long-term storage, it is recommended to freeze or dry. All methods must ensure thorough draining of water during pretreatment and regular check of status. Before cooking, it is necessary to observe whether there is mold or odor. If any abnormalities occur, they should be discarded immediately. Different storage methods can affect the taste, frozen spinach is more suitable for stewing, dried spinach is suitable for making side dishes, and fresh refrigerated cold dishes are the best. Reasonable storage can not only reduce waste, but also enjoy the nutritional value of spinach in different seasons.